MDARD reminds owners to continue protect flocks from bird flu

Yahoo

11-02-2025

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)– wants to remind owners to continue to protect their flocks and herds from the highly pathogenic avian influenza.
Spring migration for wild birds is quickly approaching and MDARD said the bird flu virus can be spread in various ways: infected wild birds, open food or water sources, shared equipment, and on clothing and shoes of caretakers.
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'February marks three years since the first detection of HPAI in Michigan poultry. Since that first case, the virus has been a prominent focal point for MDARD due to the scope and impact of this disease on our poultry and dairy industries,' said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM.
'As long as the virus continues to be carried by infected wild birds, the risk will continue. Preventing wild bird access to susceptible domestic animals needs to remain a top priority.'
The provides steps to protect animal health:
Prevent contact between domestic animals and wildlife, especially sick or dead wildlife.
Isolate sick animals away from all others and care for them after tending to healthy animals first.
Wash your hands before and after caring for animals as well as when moving between different coops, barns, or pens.
Clean and disinfect shoes/boots and clothing or store them in an area that animals cannot access.
Do not feed animals unpasteurized milk or raw or undercooked meat.
Do not share equipment or other supplies between households or farms.
all equipment and other supplies between uses. If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
Use well or municipal water as drinking water for animals and prevent them from drinking out of puddles or other open/exposed water sources.
Keep their feed and feed ingredients secure to ensure there is no contact with pests or wildlife.
Contact your veterinarian if you have any questions related to the health of your animals.
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The MDARD reports six additional bird flu infections were detected in commercial poultry and dairy cattle since last spring and four detections in backyard flocks since Dec.
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